NTT Data Group Names New President and CEO

Multinational IT service NTT Data Group and its board of directors have approved the appointment of Kazuhiko Nakayama as the firm’s newest President and CEO, effective immediately.

Serving most recently as CFO of the company, Kazuhiko holds proven leadership experience and a depth of expertise in defining the firm’s business strategy and delivering growth. 

He will continue to strengthen the competitive advantages of the business while accelerating its AI-centered growth strategy across the 70+ countries and regions in which it operates.

Yutaka Sasaki, former President and CEO of the company, will assume the role of Senior Executive Vice President of NTT, Inc. from 18 June.

A leader in AI, digital business and technology services, NTT Data Group is valued at US$60bn and serves more than 70% of companies in the Fortune Global 100. The company is committed to accelerating client success and positively impacting companies and society through what it calls “responsible innovation”.

NTT Data as global leader in IT services

Discussing his appointment, Kazuhiko says: “Over the past three years I have had the honour of working closely with Mr Sasaki and the leadership team on a strategic course that has established NTT Data among the top five IT services businesses globally. 

“That experience has reinforced my conviction in the strength of our offering, the quality of our people and the size of the opportunity ahead. 

“As I take on the responsibilities of CEO and lead the growth of the NTT Data Group going forward, I feel a deep sense of dedication, possibility and excitement.”

Kazuhiko began his career at NTT in 1989 and has since made significant contributions to NTT Docomo, NTT East, and NTT Communications. 

He was also appointed to the role of CFO of NTT Data Group in 2023 and prior to that role, he was Senior Vice President and Head of Finance and Accounting at NTT.

Accelerating company growth strategies

Kazuhiko will play a key role in accelerating NTT Data Group's growth strategy, which will focus on two key areas alongside its core business operations: AI‑empowered New Value & Productivity and Next‑Generation Infrastructure.

The company plans to use this strategy to lead in areas such as Operational AI – which supports business transformation – and Physical AI – which enables the application of AI in physical spaces such as worksites and facilities.

Yutaka praised his successor and spoke about NTT Data Group’s future prospects, saying: “The appointment of Mr Nakayama as President and Chief Executive Officer follows a thoughtful and carefully planned succession process. 

“Under the leadership of Mr Nakayama, NTT Data Group will embark on a new management structure. NTT Data Group stands at the very core of the NTT Group and serves as its growth engine. 

“Under Mr Nakayama's renewed growth strategy, I look forward to seeing continued strength in performance and a commitment to achieving quality growth together as One NTT Data.”